I'm quite happy this week -I finished my coding project at work -woohoo! I'm learning heaps about C# and Xaml. Hopefully the next project will get done even quicker now.
V and I are enjoying having some American backpacker visitors from back home with us. V's been playing tour guide and I tag along when work permits. It's been great fun reminiscing about old friends and the Mexican restaurant we always ate at Sunday after church... Great fun -but we are so going to need to catch up on some sleep after they leave. Backpackers like to get up by like 6 or 7 am to go see the sights! They've been on ferry rides, to the Opera house, hiking, to lighthouses, and today they are in the Blue Mountains. I hope they're enjoying themselves as much as we are.
I'm not going to get political on my blog, but I wanted to share with you an article I really enjoyed...
http://news.bbc.co.uk/today/hi/today/newsid_7600000/7600592.stm
Tuesday, September 30, 2008
Thursday, September 18, 2008
Long Overdue Update
Hi everyone!
Has it really been several weeks since I last updated? Sorry.. Life has been good. We officially had the first day of spring a few weeks ago and suddenly "boom": perfectly gorgeous weather that makes you ache to go outside all day long. The time of cold is over and won't be around again for a long time... I'm already wearing t-shirts and it's only spring. *fingers crossed that summer is mild*. Other than beautiful weather, spring has brought with it allergies. I've never really had spring allergies before, but now I've got really itchy eyes. Thanks weird Australian pollen.
I work all week and keep meaning to update blogs/e-mail family and friends on the weekends but I keep having interesting, event-packed weekends. One Saturday I went on a bus with the church group to Canberra -Australia's capitol (about 3 hours away). It was great fun. We went to the national war museum, ate a picnic lunch in the park with black swans and pink cherry trees blossoming, took pictures of the parliament house (which they do not like you calling the Capitol building, by the way), and a lookout stop at Mt. Ainsley. The drive home was a treat also as we saw HERDS of wild kangaroos! I loved getting to be a tourist for a day. I've got heaps of photos and will upload some of the better ones when I get a chance. Unfortunately, all the kangaroo pics were out a bus window moving at around 60 mph as we drove by.
This weekend I'm looking forward to Mountain biking in the Terry Hills area with the church group. It's lovely weather, and it should be beautiful in the scenic bike trails around there. Australia has lots of national parks and scenic protected areas, which is nice.
The other main thing I've been occupied with is house hunting. Our lease ends next month and we needed to find somewhere to move to. Considering how big of an effort it was last time, I was very anxious. This time, with the help of a good reference from our current real estate company and my super-organization of necessary documents, we got in at the first place we applied! It's a long lease too which means we won't have to move again soon, thankfully.
Next stop, car hunting....
Cheers and have a great weekend everyone!
Has it really been several weeks since I last updated? Sorry.. Life has been good. We officially had the first day of spring a few weeks ago and suddenly "boom": perfectly gorgeous weather that makes you ache to go outside all day long. The time of cold is over and won't be around again for a long time... I'm already wearing t-shirts and it's only spring. *fingers crossed that summer is mild*. Other than beautiful weather, spring has brought with it allergies. I've never really had spring allergies before, but now I've got really itchy eyes. Thanks weird Australian pollen.
I work all week and keep meaning to update blogs/e-mail family and friends on the weekends but I keep having interesting, event-packed weekends. One Saturday I went on a bus with the church group to Canberra -Australia's capitol (about 3 hours away). It was great fun. We went to the national war museum, ate a picnic lunch in the park with black swans and pink cherry trees blossoming, took pictures of the parliament house (which they do not like you calling the Capitol building, by the way), and a lookout stop at Mt. Ainsley. The drive home was a treat also as we saw HERDS of wild kangaroos! I loved getting to be a tourist for a day. I've got heaps of photos and will upload some of the better ones when I get a chance. Unfortunately, all the kangaroo pics were out a bus window moving at around 60 mph as we drove by.
This weekend I'm looking forward to Mountain biking in the Terry Hills area with the church group. It's lovely weather, and it should be beautiful in the scenic bike trails around there. Australia has lots of national parks and scenic protected areas, which is nice.
The other main thing I've been occupied with is house hunting. Our lease ends next month and we needed to find somewhere to move to. Considering how big of an effort it was last time, I was very anxious. This time, with the help of a good reference from our current real estate company and my super-organization of necessary documents, we got in at the first place we applied! It's a long lease too which means we won't have to move again soon, thankfully.
Next stop, car hunting....
Cheers and have a great weekend everyone!
Wednesday, September 3, 2008
SciFi into reality
I'm at work facing the same problem experienced in nearly every other office worldwide, and most homes too. I'm freezing! I'm wearing an undershirt for warmth, a long-sleeved sweater, and a jacket -while drinking a cup of boiling hot tea even. Meanwhile, the guy next to me is wearing a t-shirt and has turned the airconditioner on.
Yes, I could bring a portable heater from home up to work. But, it just doesn't make sense to turn on both a heater and airconditioner in one room does it? Not to mention, quite a waste of electricity.
So, someone smarter than me please hurry up and invent personal space bubbles that each individual is in control of their own surrounding temperatures please. I don't want to dress like I'm going skiing just to go into work!
Sunday, August 31, 2008
The taste of home
Wow, I can't believe it's September already! I'm back in Australia now, and have had enough time to unpack, do some house cleaning and mostly to get back into things at work.
I've been waiting for my mom to send me this picture since I moved here last Jan. It was our last meal out in Oklahoma. Mmmmm, good inexpensive Mexican food -and definitely not skimpy on portion sizes. Now this is a burrito!
Cheers everyone.
Monday, August 11, 2008
Home Safe
Hi everyone! What a whirlwind trip. I'm just now back in Oklahoma after seeing many friends and of course wonderful family in Texas. Boy it was hard to leave, but it sure was nice visiting everyone. I should have done more of this stuff before I left the continent. I guess you never fully appreciate what you have until you have to work for it, and that includes family and friends close by.
Only 4 more days here *sniff*! I'm looking forward to more friends to catch up with, a little more shopping left to do, and some good quality time with the folks. I can't believe how fast it's gone by already.
Only 4 more days here *sniff*! I'm looking forward to more friends to catch up with, a little more shopping left to do, and some good quality time with the folks. I can't believe how fast it's gone by already.
Thursday, August 7, 2008
That's right you're not from Texas, but Texas wants you anyway....
I've been having the best time here in Austin, and Texas as a whole. I'm so happy to be around my cousin, who is like a big brother to me. He and his amazing wife and 3 lovely kids are always such a blessing and a comfort to me. He finally got to come home after nearly 2 weeks in the hospital. There was much rejoicing. Home is wonderfully healing medicine compared to a hospital room. I've finally gotten to meet my new little cousins. I think it may take a few trips for them to know me, but for now I'm just pleased as I can be to be around them and to love on them.
I've also gotten to visit with some very good friends here in Austin. Last night I had a wonderful time at the Melting Pot with 2 very dear friends, and we even had a violin solo played just for our table!
What great people, they always inspire me and challenge me to do my best at everything while still just being wonderful fun to hang out with. You all are so cute together, you made me think about how much I miss being around V. And yes, someday it would be nice to call Austin home and see you all more than just a dinner passing through. Right now it's a growth opportunity for me to live in Australia and I need to wake up and take greater advantage of it if I can. But thank you for making me feel so at home here and for keeping in touch over the years. And the offer still stands if you can make your way to Australia, you've got a place to stay and a tour guide at your service.
Tonight I just drove back from meeting up at Starbucks/dinner with another very dear friend, who will probably laugh at me when he reads this, but who seems to really have grown since college. He's always been a fantastic and interesting person, but he's only gotten deeper and even more caring over the years. It's been a long time since he threw my books into the hall when the teacher wasn't looking. (And there may have been some retribution in the form of a baby picture.. but it wasn't me! :) ) Now the guy who sat and doodled through Calculus is a math teacher -oh the irony. But he's a wonderful person and I'm so grateful he took time out to visit.
Makes me wonder if I've changed very much since college. It doesn't feel like it, even despite all the momentus events in my life -a doctorate, marriage, living on a new continent -I still feel like I was just in college yesterday and I'm still a kid. Maybe that's because I just left grad school last year so I really have mostly been in school and not 'the real world' very much yet. Maybe it's just easier to see when I look at other people. Being around my friends now, it's like somehow they're like adults now. People with kids! Owning houses! Years at jobs and work! It all happens so fast and when you're not looking.
Seeing all these old friends has brought back lots of fond college memories. Those were some great years because of the great people I was surrounded by. I'm looking forward to seeing more friends and reminiscing about more stories tomorrow night as well.
I'm so lucky to know so many thoughtful and gifted people who really make other people a priority in their lives. I'm treasuring these moments as best I can, soaking them up. On a bad day, I want to be able to remember sitting in front of the speakers with my cousin listening to amazingly clear music with nuances and soul. I want to treasure the laughter of my friends and the happiness in their eyes. I want to 'feel' hugs from my family.
If only I could transport my new Australia friends, and maybe a bit of the beach, to Austin..... But I'm leaving on a Jet plane, don't know when I'll be back again. Listening to that song today -I don't know of my cousin, a John Denver fan, knew how much that song really hits home with me right now in my life. It still feels like I just arrived in the states yesterday, but I have to fly out again in one week already. Shortest month-long vacation ever.
I've also gotten to visit with some very good friends here in Austin. Last night I had a wonderful time at the Melting Pot with 2 very dear friends, and we even had a violin solo played just for our table!
What great people, they always inspire me and challenge me to do my best at everything while still just being wonderful fun to hang out with. You all are so cute together, you made me think about how much I miss being around V. And yes, someday it would be nice to call Austin home and see you all more than just a dinner passing through. Right now it's a growth opportunity for me to live in Australia and I need to wake up and take greater advantage of it if I can. But thank you for making me feel so at home here and for keeping in touch over the years. And the offer still stands if you can make your way to Australia, you've got a place to stay and a tour guide at your service.
Tonight I just drove back from meeting up at Starbucks/dinner with another very dear friend, who will probably laugh at me when he reads this, but who seems to really have grown since college. He's always been a fantastic and interesting person, but he's only gotten deeper and even more caring over the years. It's been a long time since he threw my books into the hall when the teacher wasn't looking. (And there may have been some retribution in the form of a baby picture.. but it wasn't me! :) ) Now the guy who sat and doodled through Calculus is a math teacher -oh the irony. But he's a wonderful person and I'm so grateful he took time out to visit.
Makes me wonder if I've changed very much since college. It doesn't feel like it, even despite all the momentus events in my life -a doctorate, marriage, living on a new continent -I still feel like I was just in college yesterday and I'm still a kid. Maybe that's because I just left grad school last year so I really have mostly been in school and not 'the real world' very much yet. Maybe it's just easier to see when I look at other people. Being around my friends now, it's like somehow they're like adults now. People with kids! Owning houses! Years at jobs and work! It all happens so fast and when you're not looking.
Seeing all these old friends has brought back lots of fond college memories. Those were some great years because of the great people I was surrounded by. I'm looking forward to seeing more friends and reminiscing about more stories tomorrow night as well.
I'm so lucky to know so many thoughtful and gifted people who really make other people a priority in their lives. I'm treasuring these moments as best I can, soaking them up. On a bad day, I want to be able to remember sitting in front of the speakers with my cousin listening to amazingly clear music with nuances and soul. I want to treasure the laughter of my friends and the happiness in their eyes. I want to 'feel' hugs from my family.
If only I could transport my new Australia friends, and maybe a bit of the beach, to Austin..... But I'm leaving on a Jet plane, don't know when I'll be back again. Listening to that song today -I don't know of my cousin, a John Denver fan, knew how much that song really hits home with me right now in my life. It still feels like I just arrived in the states yesterday, but I have to fly out again in one week already. Shortest month-long vacation ever.
Monday, August 4, 2008
Austin or Bust!
I'm so busy catching up with old friends now, cause yeah they all still live in Texas! I'm heading to Austin in a day to visit friends and family. So if you're around Austin (this includes San Angelo!) send me an e-mail! I've already gotten to see a really good friend from college and meet his adorable lovely wife finally, and I just happened to be eating at the same restaurant after church as them! Very happy coincidence.
Only thing that worries me is when people I don't know well tell me "They've heard stories about me". Oh my. Whatever it was you heard, it wasn't me! :) I guess one good thing is people in Oz don't know all my fun college stories!
Only thing that worries me is when people I don't know well tell me "They've heard stories about me". Oh my. Whatever it was you heard, it wasn't me! :) I guess one good thing is people in Oz don't know all my fun college stories!
Friday, August 1, 2008
Did you know Harry Potter was born July 31?
Well he was, and so was I! He's probably one of he most famous "people" to share my birthday. Thanks everyone who remembered and sent me birthday wishes. You are all far more oragnized than I, and I appreciate your thinking of me.
At both grandparents houses I got to open birthday cards and presents, eat fantastic birthday cakes topped with chocolate covered strawberries and brownies, birthday burritos with fiery hot salsa and birthday homemade green chicken enchiladas. I don't think I need to eat for a week after all the celebrating! Thanks to everyone who helped me celebrate -your being here with me was the best present of all.
Sadly, the days are sailing by and my big sis goes back home tomorrow. More time in Texas for me still though. My thoughts and prayers are with my cousin today as he recovers in the hospital from open heart surgery. I guess you won't be wrestling with me and sitting on me this visit cousin!
If I were still in Australia it would be a High: 62° and Low 48° F today. Instead, here in the states it was 102°F today (39° C), and by Monday it will be High: 107° and Low: 81° F (High 42°, Low 27° C).
I'm waiting on my grandad and sis to call back with their latitude and longitude, as we are currently playing "an adult form of hide and seek" according to my mom. If you didn't guess, they have a new gadget, a GPS.
At both grandparents houses I got to open birthday cards and presents, eat fantastic birthday cakes topped with chocolate covered strawberries and brownies, birthday burritos with fiery hot salsa and birthday homemade green chicken enchiladas. I don't think I need to eat for a week after all the celebrating! Thanks to everyone who helped me celebrate -your being here with me was the best present of all.
Sadly, the days are sailing by and my big sis goes back home tomorrow. More time in Texas for me still though. My thoughts and prayers are with my cousin today as he recovers in the hospital from open heart surgery. I guess you won't be wrestling with me and sitting on me this visit cousin!
If I were still in Australia it would be a High: 62° and Low 48° F today. Instead, here in the states it was 102°F today (39° C), and by Monday it will be High: 107° and Low: 81° F (High 42°, Low 27° C).
I'm waiting on my grandad and sis to call back with their latitude and longitude, as we are currently playing "an adult form of hide and seek" according to my mom. If you didn't guess, they have a new gadget, a GPS.
Wednesday, July 30, 2008
Howdy, Howdy!
Hi all!
I'm LOVING being back in Texas! Abilene is, as usual, hot and dry. I have been having a wonderful time visiting with my Aunt B who kindly took off work, my wonderful grandparents, and my mom and sis who also are on this adventure with me presently. My grandmother even showed my sis and I how to make tomato preserves today. It was really easy too! Watch out -I may attempt to make some when I get home.
More great Mexican food, and just great food in general. Nothing beats Granner's mashed potatoes. MMmm.... Tomorrow Aunt B is treating me to all the burritos I can eat from the "Snot-nose burrito place" (otherwise known as La Popular, but the salsa is so hot it makes my nose run) and all the freshly made lemonade I can quaff. I'm getting to be spoiled rotten here.
So, some musings this time instead of pictures... courtesy of recent experiences by yours truly
You know you're in Texas/Oklahoma when:
5. You get bit by a fire ant
4. Your chapstick melts in the car -not because you left it, but while you are still riding in the car!
3. You eat breakfast at 11:30 pm in a restaurant, and are served by a waitress with no front teeth but a big smile and a kind attitude.
2. You can buy a key chain in the shape of a bullet at a gas station -and you have a good look at it to make sure the bullet isn't real.
1. You see signs advertising "You don't need teeth to eat our beef!"
I'm LOVING being back in Texas! Abilene is, as usual, hot and dry. I have been having a wonderful time visiting with my Aunt B who kindly took off work, my wonderful grandparents, and my mom and sis who also are on this adventure with me presently. My grandmother even showed my sis and I how to make tomato preserves today. It was really easy too! Watch out -I may attempt to make some when I get home.
More great Mexican food, and just great food in general. Nothing beats Granner's mashed potatoes. MMmm.... Tomorrow Aunt B is treating me to all the burritos I can eat from the "Snot-nose burrito place" (otherwise known as La Popular, but the salsa is so hot it makes my nose run) and all the freshly made lemonade I can quaff. I'm getting to be spoiled rotten here.
So, some musings this time instead of pictures... courtesy of recent experiences by yours truly
You know you're in Texas/Oklahoma when:
5. You get bit by a fire ant
4. Your chapstick melts in the car -not because you left it, but while you are still riding in the car!
3. You eat breakfast at 11:30 pm in a restaurant, and are served by a waitress with no front teeth but a big smile and a kind attitude.
2. You can buy a key chain in the shape of a bullet at a gas station -and you have a good look at it to make sure the bullet isn't real.
1. You see signs advertising "You don't need teeth to eat our beef!"
Sunday, July 27, 2008
Living each day to the fullest
Hi everyone! The wedding went so very well... here's my lovely dress so many people helped me shop for and get thread to match and one kind friend even hemmed it for me while I stood on her kitchen table! It worked out well I think and maybe when I get back to Oz my husband will take me somewhere nice so I can wear it again. 
Also, I got to spend some time after the wedding with my good friends who came back from Georgia! And look what they kindly bought me for my birthday! A 24 case of Dr. Pepper -oh yeah. My mom met me at the airport with Dr. Pepper, T-girl had a 2 Liter in her fridge for me, and now my very own 24 cans! I'm in Dr. Pepper Heaven.
Also, I got to spend some time after the wedding with my good friends who came back from Georgia! And look what they kindly bought me for my birthday! A 24 case of Dr. Pepper -oh yeah. My mom met me at the airport with Dr. Pepper, T-girl had a 2 Liter in her fridge for me, and now my very own 24 cans! I'm in Dr. Pepper Heaven.Friday, July 25, 2008
Wondering what I'm up to?
The parties are done, but the biggest party is yet to come -wedding tomorrow! Congrats Tulsa Girl and Memphis man!
Survivng a wedding requires the help of... Wonder Woman! Everyone invloved (especially the bride!) has been a wonder woman lately. But since I haven't asked them permission to post their pictures, here's me and one of my latest craft projects to help with:
Survivng a wedding requires the help of... Wonder Woman! Everyone invloved (especially the bride!) has been a wonder woman lately. But since I haven't asked them permission to post their pictures, here's me and one of my latest craft projects to help with:
Monday, July 21, 2008
And for my friends in Australia
I thought of you all today when I was at Sams and all your questions about big American stores that have everything and about what the Costco in the USA is like. It's a lot like this:
I took a few videos in the store too, I'll show you when I come back. I'm sure you'll be amused.
Cheers!
I took a few videos in the store too, I'll show you when I come back. I'm sure you'll be amused.
Cheers!
I'm baaacccckkk!
Hi everyone! I'm baack in the states and living it up with my friends and family. I wanted to share a few photos of my trip so far. It's only been 1 weekend so far and I've been to 3 towns, all dressed up and out to dinner, swimming, shopping, lunch with my great aunt, visiting with friends, movies, listening to live jazz piano, and tomorrow I'm painting and going to Hobby Lobby! Wohoo! The only thing I haven't done much of is sleep.
Wanna see some pictures?
Dinner out with the girls!
It was winter in Australia, but it's summer here in Oklahoma for sure! Chocolates melt in your hand, chapstick melts in your purse, and QuickTrip 32 oz drinks are just 0.49 cents!
Cheers!
Wanna see some pictures?
Dinner out with the girls!
It was winter in Australia, but it's summer here in Oklahoma for sure! Chocolates melt in your hand, chapstick melts in your purse, and QuickTrip 32 oz drinks are just 0.49 cents!
Cheers!
Tuesday, July 15, 2008
Pictures!
I'm coming to the USA in just 3 days now! Yea! But, I promised some pictures. It's late, but I just wanted to post some of these. Pictures say a thousand words right?
These are a few from our day trip into Sydney. We went into the city to see the Botanical gardens, dinner, and a movie.
Happy America Day Everyone! These are some pictures of me in my special party hat (Thanks to my sweet hubby who got it just for me), some decorations including the coolest USA flag balloon, and our cheesecake for our big cookout party.
Okay, so some explanation is probably needed here. The person doing the writing should have written "Farewell" not "Frie well", but well he was from India and V thought it was funnier to leave it this way. :)
These are a few from our day trip into Sydney. We went into the city to see the Botanical gardens, dinner, and a movie.
Happy America Day Everyone! These are some pictures of me in my special party hat (Thanks to my sweet hubby who got it just for me), some decorations including the coolest USA flag balloon, and our cheesecake for our big cookout party.
Okay, so some explanation is probably needed here. The person doing the writing should have written "Farewell" not "Frie well", but well he was from India and V thought it was funnier to leave it this way. :)
Wednesday, July 9, 2008
Happy Anniversary to V and I!
Well, we've made it to one year. Wohoo! Life is good. V bought me some beautiful yellow narcissus blooms today in a pretty glass vase, a donut for breakfast , and some "get well soon " tea, because I am on day two of being pitifully sick. :(
We did have a great time celebrating last week already with our friends. V managed to get off work for Friday July 4th, so we had everyone over for a Happy 1st Anniversary, House Warming, Happy Birthday, Farewell, Congratulations, Happy Independence Day cookout to celebrate! It was great fun -about 12 people, plus a few kids and we ate real American food.
I promise, pics of the party and more details later, but tonight I'm sick and really should be sleeping instead of staying up typing. I've got work tomorrow after all.
Oh yeah, so I've got a new job too. *Grins.* Unfortunately, I think grad school opened up my head and tipped out all of my programming knowledge... Or maybe it's just my head cold. Anyhow, I'm now a programmer again. A rusty one, but a programmer. And work starts at 10am. Hooray!
G'night all! You're sorely missed and I hope to catch up with a lot of you in person when I come back, oh, next week. :) Okay, so it'll be a bit longer than that before I reach Texas, but I will be flying to the USA on July 18th. Cheers!
We did have a great time celebrating last week already with our friends. V managed to get off work for Friday July 4th, so we had everyone over for a Happy 1st Anniversary, House Warming, Happy Birthday, Farewell, Congratulations, Happy Independence Day cookout to celebrate! It was great fun -about 12 people, plus a few kids and we ate real American food.
I promise, pics of the party and more details later, but tonight I'm sick and really should be sleeping instead of staying up typing. I've got work tomorrow after all.
Oh yeah, so I've got a new job too. *Grins.* Unfortunately, I think grad school opened up my head and tipped out all of my programming knowledge... Or maybe it's just my head cold. Anyhow, I'm now a programmer again. A rusty one, but a programmer. And work starts at 10am. Hooray!
G'night all! You're sorely missed and I hope to catch up with a lot of you in person when I come back, oh, next week. :) Okay, so it'll be a bit longer than that before I reach Texas, but I will be flying to the USA on July 18th. Cheers!
Saturday, April 26, 2008
Church Picnic and the OKIE invasion of Australia
Hi everyone!
We just had another holiday here on Friday -Anzac Day. It's like Veterans day in the states and it is in remembrance of soldiers defending their country. The churches in the state in Australia have a big annual picnic on Anzac day where people come from nearly every congregation (even Canberra, which isn't in this state but is at least 3 hours away). It's a lovely time where people catch up with old friends, meet new ones, and especially report on the work their congregations are doing. They share ideas for spreading the news of Jesus, they share news of current needs and prayer requests, and I found it really interesting to get to hear about all the other congregations and the ministry here.
Instead of being in the Christian majority here (like in the Bible belt) I suddenly find myself in a country where missionaries are sent to work. I had some really interesting conversations about this with a member of the church here who has seen many mission students come and go over the years. It's really a new perspective to hear about mission trips and AIM students and all from the other side of the fence.
And some of the best news (for me anyhow) is that there are quite a few OKIES here doing mission work in the church. Can you believe it? Not just Americans, people whose parents live in Broken Arrow and such! There is apparently a big link between Australia and Oklahoma Christian, through a program called Helpers in Missions (HIM). As this program just developed within the last 10 years (while I was buried in my own schooling out of state), I never really heard of it before I came over. Some professors now at OC used to live and work in Australia and apparently do a pretty thorough job of preparing students to come and live over here for 2 years and work in the ministry. The program doesn't just send people to Australia, but some other places too. (Some great people from my own church back home are apparently in this program in England -The Perrys!)
Small world. Two more girls are coming over in August from OC to help with our church directly, and the congregation couldn't be happier. As one of the smaller congregations I don't think they often have the same resources. Everyone is so pleased they are coming that they all make it sound like they will be here in two weeks! :) I can't wait to meet them and buy them a Dr. Pepper as they settle in.
So anyhow, I had a lovely weekend and met some more nice people my age (okay, so most of them are a few years younger -I found out they know my best friends younger siblings). It was nice to talk with other people who have just made the same move as us. We compared Visa stories and and had loads to talk about. Hopefully I can help some of them through hurdles I faced here already.
Hope you all are having a lovely day. It's sunny and lunchtime so I'm going to walk to the shops and get something to eat, and probably walk my dogs. It's been raining here lots lately and they're going a bit stir crazy without the exercise they are used to.
Cheers!
We just had another holiday here on Friday -Anzac Day. It's like Veterans day in the states and it is in remembrance of soldiers defending their country. The churches in the state in Australia have a big annual picnic on Anzac day where people come from nearly every congregation (even Canberra, which isn't in this state but is at least 3 hours away). It's a lovely time where people catch up with old friends, meet new ones, and especially report on the work their congregations are doing. They share ideas for spreading the news of Jesus, they share news of current needs and prayer requests, and I found it really interesting to get to hear about all the other congregations and the ministry here.
Instead of being in the Christian majority here (like in the Bible belt) I suddenly find myself in a country where missionaries are sent to work. I had some really interesting conversations about this with a member of the church here who has seen many mission students come and go over the years. It's really a new perspective to hear about mission trips and AIM students and all from the other side of the fence.
And some of the best news (for me anyhow) is that there are quite a few OKIES here doing mission work in the church. Can you believe it? Not just Americans, people whose parents live in Broken Arrow and such! There is apparently a big link between Australia and Oklahoma Christian, through a program called Helpers in Missions (HIM). As this program just developed within the last 10 years (while I was buried in my own schooling out of state), I never really heard of it before I came over. Some professors now at OC used to live and work in Australia and apparently do a pretty thorough job of preparing students to come and live over here for 2 years and work in the ministry. The program doesn't just send people to Australia, but some other places too. (Some great people from my own church back home are apparently in this program in England -The Perrys!)
Small world. Two more girls are coming over in August from OC to help with our church directly, and the congregation couldn't be happier. As one of the smaller congregations I don't think they often have the same resources. Everyone is so pleased they are coming that they all make it sound like they will be here in two weeks! :) I can't wait to meet them and buy them a Dr. Pepper as they settle in.
So anyhow, I had a lovely weekend and met some more nice people my age (okay, so most of them are a few years younger -I found out they know my best friends younger siblings). It was nice to talk with other people who have just made the same move as us. We compared Visa stories and and had loads to talk about. Hopefully I can help some of them through hurdles I faced here already.
Hope you all are having a lovely day. It's sunny and lunchtime so I'm going to walk to the shops and get something to eat, and probably walk my dogs. It's been raining here lots lately and they're going a bit stir crazy without the exercise they are used to.
Cheers!
Tuesday, April 22, 2008
Brrr, Chilly!
Boy it's chilly here. It's not standard to have central heat or air conditioners in Australia -or any heat or AC units. I'm glad I brought my jacket over. (It's not extremely cold really -it's just me being cold-natured. High today of 67, low of 58, & currently feels like 63 according to the weather.) I'm sure with a cup of tea I'll warm right up.
We should have internet connections sorted by tomorrow finally so V and I aren't fighting for use of the one computer. Nothing ever gets set up right the first time in any country.
They do have peanut butter here in stores. I'm eating PB on bread or instant noodles until we get a fridge for this place and some real groceries. Feels like I'm still in college most days (Except no Dr. Pepper! You can only get a Dr. Pepper in a specialty store in the mall for nearly $3 a can! Have I mentioned that before? Probably have. How can nobody in this country drink Dr. Pepper? Guess I'll have to stick with tea.).
Cheers everyone!
We should have internet connections sorted by tomorrow finally so V and I aren't fighting for use of the one computer. Nothing ever gets set up right the first time in any country.
They do have peanut butter here in stores. I'm eating PB on bread or instant noodles until we get a fridge for this place and some real groceries. Feels like I'm still in college most days (Except no Dr. Pepper! You can only get a Dr. Pepper in a specialty store in the mall for nearly $3 a can! Have I mentioned that before? Probably have. How can nobody in this country drink Dr. Pepper? Guess I'll have to stick with tea.).
Cheers everyone!
Nothing like moving....
Hi again! There's nothing like moving to keep you really busy. We're in a new place now, much closer to stores, a post office, and our friends here. It's got a great sized back yard for the dogs and lots of lovely plants -a purple bougainvillea, several shades of hibiscus, a white rose bush, and several other bright flowering but as yet unidentified plants. As for the rest of the house, it's a disaster of boxes still. I've got a bag of cleaning supplies and hopefully will everything here scrubbed down and put away this week.
Closets aren't standard in Australia and this rental property didn't come with any, but luckily in this part of the city they are having yet another -yes you guessed it- council cleanup. Today V and I were lucky enough to find not 1, but 2 nice wardrobes that were as yet untouched by all the rain we've been having. It rains every day here lately; good for the plants, bad for furniture sitting on curbs.
We've got internet hooked up here for just one computer so far, so I have to pry V off his pc for some online time, but hopefully that will be remedied soon. I've got lots to do around the house anyhow to settle in finally. I'll post some pictures once it stops raining and I can take some of the pretty flowers in my backyard. At least they are getting watered with all the rain and are very green.
We're glad to finally be in our own little place and start establishing a rental record in this country so the next time renting will be a little bit easier. Hope everyone is enjoying spring in the states. We're starting to pull out jackets here for a bit of chilly wind as fall sets in. Miss you all. Cheers!
Closets aren't standard in Australia and this rental property didn't come with any, but luckily in this part of the city they are having yet another -yes you guessed it- council cleanup. Today V and I were lucky enough to find not 1, but 2 nice wardrobes that were as yet untouched by all the rain we've been having. It rains every day here lately; good for the plants, bad for furniture sitting on curbs.
We've got internet hooked up here for just one computer so far, so I have to pry V off his pc for some online time, but hopefully that will be remedied soon. I've got lots to do around the house anyhow to settle in finally. I'll post some pictures once it stops raining and I can take some of the pretty flowers in my backyard. At least they are getting watered with all the rain and are very green.
We're glad to finally be in our own little place and start establishing a rental record in this country so the next time renting will be a little bit easier. Hope everyone is enjoying spring in the states. We're starting to pull out jackets here for a bit of chilly wind as fall sets in. Miss you all. Cheers!
Sunday, April 13, 2008
And the hunt continues....
Lucky you Cyrus! (Read his comment on previous house-hunting post on how simple and efficient the rental system is in America.)
Unfortunately for us, long story short in the end we are back on the hunt ready for our 50 billionth house hunting trip on Monday morning. As inflation and interest rates are soaring, more people are turning to renting rather than buying, making this as tv ads call it "the highest renting market in history". Boy I'm glad I arrived just in time for this.
America, please hurry up and send you recession over here to deflate prices, pretty please?
Unfortunately for us, long story short in the end we are back on the hunt ready for our 50 billionth house hunting trip on Monday morning. As inflation and interest rates are soaring, more people are turning to renting rather than buying, making this as tv ads call it "the highest renting market in history". Boy I'm glad I arrived just in time for this.
America, please hurry up and send you recession over here to deflate prices, pretty please?
Friday, April 11, 2008
Other odds and ends
Hrm, so many little things I've meant to post and haven't because I've been so busy. Well today since for once I don't have to house hunt and the dishes are done and the laundry is running I guess I can spend a few minutes posting and catching up on long neglected e-mails.
Thanks to all my family who's been sending me updates. I appreciate hearing from you all and being kept up to date on things. If you're not related to me, well, some health problems in the family lately. (I love you Granner and think of you all the time, so get to feeling better!) Mom also had surgery on her birthday this week (what a way to spend a birthday).
V had a birthday this week too. We celebrated with a nice Japanese meal for lunch and pizza for dinner for the birthday boy. I think we're also going to try to go out to celebrate next week with friends here when we can get schedules coordinated.
Before Easter I had 2 things happen in one day that were fairly big -I had a wisdom tooth pulled out and I had to go dress shopping. One of those events was quick and low-cost. Dress shopping, however, was long and painful and so expensive in the end I took it back to the store. It didn't match the rainy weather for the event anyhow. V's sister was married on the beach but unfortunately we had some morning showers.
I'm really happy with my new dentist so far, which is good because I think I'm going to be seeing a lot of him in the near future after my checkup. The dentist was as nice as anyone who scrapes your teeth with pointy metal scrapers and drills can be. He's also from England originally. (Many people I meet here are from England or South Africa, not many locals.) I was pretty scared about experiencing health care in a foreign country, but I guess it's like every country there are horror stories and extreme cases.
What else? Oh , I finally got a cell phone. A red one. :) It's the most basic little prepaid thing I could get, but at least it gave realtor's a way to get in touch. It also took me 5 hours to go and get by bus and get back home, as somehow I got on a limited stop bus that didn't not let me get off where I expected and I ended up somewhere totally new. Then I had to find a phone there because it was getting too late to wait on another bus and take it back through traffic. Stores mostly close at 5pm here, yes, even the mall and grocery stores. 5 pm. Thursday night it does stay open a couple of hours later, and most things close 6-7 pm. Saturdays things close around 1pm.
So even though Wal-mart is a huge (and monopolizing, evil, & giant) store, be grateful for it you Americans! Cheap goods, variety, all in one store! Open 24/7
The best shopping here is a catholic charity store, like a salvation army store, called St. Vincent DePaul's. I went once and it was packed with people. It has everything and it gives me hope that we be able to afford things like dishes, silverware and chairs in our new place. Lucky we were able to scavenge so much, but some things we need for our new place we didn't previously have room for here with the in-laws stuff.
I've been sitting here listening to country music today while e-mailing and posting. Really odd for me I know, but it makes me feel like I'm back in Texas, which I really miss. Of course, when we come back, don't plan on dragging me to any Dixie Chics concerts Mom and especially Dad!
Gonna go enjoy the sunshine for a bit as it's a beautiful day today. Thanks for the comments and hope you all are doing well and enjoying the coming spring weather (if you're far enough south to be finished with snow that is!)
Thanks to all my family who's been sending me updates. I appreciate hearing from you all and being kept up to date on things. If you're not related to me, well, some health problems in the family lately. (I love you Granner and think of you all the time, so get to feeling better!) Mom also had surgery on her birthday this week (what a way to spend a birthday).
V had a birthday this week too. We celebrated with a nice Japanese meal for lunch and pizza for dinner for the birthday boy. I think we're also going to try to go out to celebrate next week with friends here when we can get schedules coordinated.
Before Easter I had 2 things happen in one day that were fairly big -I had a wisdom tooth pulled out and I had to go dress shopping. One of those events was quick and low-cost. Dress shopping, however, was long and painful and so expensive in the end I took it back to the store. It didn't match the rainy weather for the event anyhow. V's sister was married on the beach but unfortunately we had some morning showers.
I'm really happy with my new dentist so far, which is good because I think I'm going to be seeing a lot of him in the near future after my checkup. The dentist was as nice as anyone who scrapes your teeth with pointy metal scrapers and drills can be. He's also from England originally. (Many people I meet here are from England or South Africa, not many locals.) I was pretty scared about experiencing health care in a foreign country, but I guess it's like every country there are horror stories and extreme cases.
What else? Oh , I finally got a cell phone. A red one. :) It's the most basic little prepaid thing I could get, but at least it gave realtor's a way to get in touch. It also took me 5 hours to go and get by bus and get back home, as somehow I got on a limited stop bus that didn't not let me get off where I expected and I ended up somewhere totally new. Then I had to find a phone there because it was getting too late to wait on another bus and take it back through traffic. Stores mostly close at 5pm here, yes, even the mall and grocery stores. 5 pm. Thursday night it does stay open a couple of hours later, and most things close 6-7 pm. Saturdays things close around 1pm.
So even though Wal-mart is a huge (and monopolizing, evil, & giant) store, be grateful for it you Americans! Cheap goods, variety, all in one store! Open 24/7
The best shopping here is a catholic charity store, like a salvation army store, called St. Vincent DePaul's. I went once and it was packed with people. It has everything and it gives me hope that we be able to afford things like dishes, silverware and chairs in our new place. Lucky we were able to scavenge so much, but some things we need for our new place we didn't previously have room for here with the in-laws stuff.
I've been sitting here listening to country music today while e-mailing and posting. Really odd for me I know, but it makes me feel like I'm back in Texas, which I really miss. Of course, when we come back, don't plan on dragging me to any Dixie Chics concerts Mom and especially Dad!
Gonna go enjoy the sunshine for a bit as it's a beautiful day today. Thanks for the comments and hope you all are doing well and enjoying the coming spring weather (if you're far enough south to be finished with snow that is!)
Exhaustion of the House Hunt
Hi Everyone,
Well the house hunt really has been a blood-thirsty hunt. V and I have been hitting real estate office after office day after day, and when he's had to work I've gone by bus. It's really competitive to be approved for rental and you see the same people applying at place after place, all with their organized binders of paperwork required for application, each of us hoping that we outshine the other candidates at at least one proerty.
These rental people usually require 100 points of identification, with points gained from each id document you can supply (such as drivers license, passport, other photo id, birth certificate, bank statement, utility bills, previous 4 rental receipts, car registration papers, a month's worth of pay stubs, written references from previous landlords, etc) And you have to have as many of those as possible, as well as personal references and work references. Also, you have to visit each property before you are allowed to apply, and they are only open for viewing for 15 minutes around lunchtime one/two days a week. Usually the first person to the house with a good application gets it, so we have to scramble from house to house trying to be first there and first to fill out the forms. And the houses are all spread out of course over several suburbs so we have seen a lot of the coast lately. Well, we drove by the coast anyway. I was usually too busy looking at the map to find the next property's location.
I've filled out dozens of applications now, and finally this week we got some nibbles. I'm not saying anything here for certain until the paperwork is signed and it's officially official. I'm glad we're at least being considered for some finally. It's been an all-consuming task. The bad thing is many places are only beaing leased for 6 months until they plan to rennovate the place, so in 6 months I get to go through all this again. At least then I'll have more Australian references so I don't have to chance they will call my poor USA contacts in the middle of the night. Thank you to all who let me list you as a reference; I really appreciate it. I don't know if they bothered to call the US, but you never know.
So hooray!, moving day seems to be in the near future and V and I will finally have a place of our own. I've had suitcases packed and ready to move for a few weeks now, so they'd better give me a key soon.
Cheers!
Well the house hunt really has been a blood-thirsty hunt. V and I have been hitting real estate office after office day after day, and when he's had to work I've gone by bus. It's really competitive to be approved for rental and you see the same people applying at place after place, all with their organized binders of paperwork required for application, each of us hoping that we outshine the other candidates at at least one proerty.
These rental people usually require 100 points of identification, with points gained from each id document you can supply (such as drivers license, passport, other photo id, birth certificate, bank statement, utility bills, previous 4 rental receipts, car registration papers, a month's worth of pay stubs, written references from previous landlords, etc) And you have to have as many of those as possible, as well as personal references and work references. Also, you have to visit each property before you are allowed to apply, and they are only open for viewing for 15 minutes around lunchtime one/two days a week. Usually the first person to the house with a good application gets it, so we have to scramble from house to house trying to be first there and first to fill out the forms. And the houses are all spread out of course over several suburbs so we have seen a lot of the coast lately. Well, we drove by the coast anyway. I was usually too busy looking at the map to find the next property's location.
I've filled out dozens of applications now, and finally this week we got some nibbles. I'm not saying anything here for certain until the paperwork is signed and it's officially official. I'm glad we're at least being considered for some finally. It's been an all-consuming task. The bad thing is many places are only beaing leased for 6 months until they plan to rennovate the place, so in 6 months I get to go through all this again. At least then I'll have more Australian references so I don't have to chance they will call my poor USA contacts in the middle of the night. Thank you to all who let me list you as a reference; I really appreciate it. I don't know if they bothered to call the US, but you never know.
So hooray!, moving day seems to be in the near future and V and I will finally have a place of our own. I've had suitcases packed and ready to move for a few weeks now, so they'd better give me a key soon.
Cheers!
Friday, March 28, 2008
Our own place
Hopefully by the end of this week I will have a new mailing address to share with everyone. I have been apartment hunting over this past month, but now we are getting desperate and I think we will take whatever we can find that is cheap.
It means so much, especially when living in a new country where everything is so different some privacy (where people do not just walk in anytime they please) and to have a little control over your own home. There are always rules, but it would be nice if a light gets left on or a door accidentally left unlocked not to have my character called into question.
I have found some great little apartments -in Austin. :) I guess I'd better look a little more in the Sydney area though, eh? Australia is a pretty place to visit, but I'm not so sure about living here.
Wish us luck finding an okay place!
It means so much, especially when living in a new country where everything is so different some privacy (where people do not just walk in anytime they please) and to have a little control over your own home. There are always rules, but it would be nice if a light gets left on or a door accidentally left unlocked not to have my character called into question.
I have found some great little apartments -in Austin. :) I guess I'd better look a little more in the Sydney area though, eh? Australia is a pretty place to visit, but I'm not so sure about living here.
Wish us luck finding an okay place!
Saturday, March 22, 2008
Happy Easter Everyone!
I don't know about you but so far I have had a lovely Easter morning. V got up extra early despite working double shifts and extra holiday shifts and drove me to church (40 min by car, double that by bus). And you know what the most incredulous thing was? Several people there remembered me! From my one visit two years ago!
It's a lovely church and I'm happy to finally be there. It may be small (~25 people, including children), but it is an active, humble, and loving group of people. There are even several non-english speaking students who are learning English through studying the Bible (like the World Bible School and Lets Start Talking programs). Oh, and I loved that they served morning tea between church and class because anyone who knows me knows I slept in and skipped breakfast.
It's funny how different the dynamics are in a small group. There will be no falling asleep at church, LOL. (Not that I ever did that Mom and Dad -it's just a joke! Really!) Apparently they spotted me as a chuch member straight away because they noticed I knew all the words to the songs. They have also already helped me organize easier transport for church next week. I look forward to getting involved more.
Happy Easter everyone.
16 “For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish, but have eternal life. 17 “For God did not send the Son into the world to judge the world, but that the world might be saved through Him.
It's a lovely church and I'm happy to finally be there. It may be small (~25 people, including children), but it is an active, humble, and loving group of people. There are even several non-english speaking students who are learning English through studying the Bible (like the World Bible School and Lets Start Talking programs). Oh, and I loved that they served morning tea between church and class because anyone who knows me knows I slept in and skipped breakfast.
It's funny how different the dynamics are in a small group. There will be no falling asleep at church, LOL. (Not that I ever did that Mom and Dad -it's just a joke! Really!) Apparently they spotted me as a chuch member straight away because they noticed I knew all the words to the songs. They have also already helped me organize easier transport for church next week. I look forward to getting involved more.
Happy Easter everyone.
16 “For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish, but have eternal life. 17 “For God did not send the Son into the world to judge the world, but that the world might be saved through Him.
Friday, March 21, 2008
A lovely hike
It's always encouraging to see signs like this one as you start your walk.
But the views were beautiful and it was a lovely day.
Ender really enjoyed the hike too. 
There were many beautiful Australian plants around to see, even though it's technically fall here now. This is a scribbly-gum, named for a worm that leaves a little trail of scribbles behind in the bark. Or so I'm told.
A short clip of video. I need a lot more practice at using the video camera feature on my camera I think. Hope you enjoyed the views as I did.
Friday, March 14, 2008
New Family!
I want to let you all know I've got 2 newly adopted little cousins in the family and I'm very excited about them. If you were at my wedding -they are the flower girl's new sisters. (Thank you big sis for forwarding on all the info!) I can't wait to meet them; looking forward to July.
Best wishes, welcome to the family, and lots of love to them. Not that they can read this, or even read yet. But, ya know.
Best wishes, welcome to the family, and lots of love to them. Not that they can read this, or even read yet. But, ya know.
Hi, I'm not sick or dead or anything!
Sorry I haven't been updating in a while. I have just been very homesick. Being homesick has nothing to do with where you are, it's where you aren't. I miss my loving family and friends very much. I miss Dr. Pepper. Heck, I even miss Wal-mart. (Stores here close down at night -can you imagine that? No 24/7, no buying groceries at 2 am anymore!)
V and I, and occasionally his folks have been busy the last few weeks with council clean-up. Once a year (on a scheduled basis) people around here all put things they don't want out on the curb. It's not normal trash -it's like the things people here would donate to churches, charities, or college students. :) It sits out on the curb until someone scavenges it (One person's trash is another person's treasure!) or eventually the shire councils haul it away to be recycled. Charities go around and loot if the have the man-power, people who run 2nd-hand shops, people who recycle metal for cash, and people like us who need furniture/dishes/etc.
We have many, many little treasures (and big ones) from our looting. We found cash (about $15, plus $5 canadian), metals which we recycled for more cash (Yes Dad, V finally got to haul a carload of scrap in for cash), this 19inch moniter I'm looking at to type this (and 3 other 17 inch ones), speakers for my computer, a 120 GB hard drive, a 7 ft couch, desks, computer tables, art supplies, set of black plates, 3 teapots and teacups, a whole complete teaset with tags still on, a Tiffany glass bowl, nice computer chair, drafting set, a working clothes-dryer (Yes!!!), and the list goes on and on... It's totally unbelievable what people throw away.
This is some of my favorite loot. It was all carefully wrapped in newpaper and put in a box, then piled with lots of other things...
We went to some really nice neighborhoods where people were just upgrading. It seems a shame to me that people don't rehome things. Recycling is all well and good, but isn't it better to use things that still work?
Anyhow, been busy on the days off cleaning the scavenged items and sorting them all. Good timing for us that cleanup was now.
Sadly, all the cleanups are over with now. Still very busy though -beautiful weather so V's job of feeding people is really busy. Easter weekend is coming up -and with it a wedding in the family here. Lots of people staying at the house in our 1 extra room and the rooms of our level we aren't allowed in, all here for the big event. Should prove to be really crazy. We are all hoping for sunny weather as we will be out on the beach. It's been really warm and summery here still, despite a few days in the high 60's-low 70's when Aussies declared winter had come early!
Thanks for all the comments, I appreciate hearing from everyone and miss you all a great deal.
V and I, and occasionally his folks have been busy the last few weeks with council clean-up. Once a year (on a scheduled basis) people around here all put things they don't want out on the curb. It's not normal trash -it's like the things people here would donate to churches, charities, or college students. :) It sits out on the curb until someone scavenges it (One person's trash is another person's treasure!) or eventually the shire councils haul it away to be recycled. Charities go around and loot if the have the man-power, people who run 2nd-hand shops, people who recycle metal for cash, and people like us who need furniture/dishes/etc.
We have many, many little treasures (and big ones) from our looting. We found cash (about $15, plus $5 canadian), metals which we recycled for more cash (Yes Dad, V finally got to haul a carload of scrap in for cash), this 19inch moniter I'm looking at to type this (and 3 other 17 inch ones), speakers for my computer, a 120 GB hard drive, a 7 ft couch, desks, computer tables, art supplies, set of black plates, 3 teapots and teacups, a whole complete teaset with tags still on, a Tiffany glass bowl, nice computer chair, drafting set, a working clothes-dryer (Yes!!!), and the list goes on and on... It's totally unbelievable what people throw away.
This is some of my favorite loot. It was all carefully wrapped in newpaper and put in a box, then piled with lots of other things...
We went to some really nice neighborhoods where people were just upgrading. It seems a shame to me that people don't rehome things. Recycling is all well and good, but isn't it better to use things that still work?
Anyhow, been busy on the days off cleaning the scavenged items and sorting them all. Good timing for us that cleanup was now.
Sadly, all the cleanups are over with now. Still very busy though -beautiful weather so V's job of feeding people is really busy. Easter weekend is coming up -and with it a wedding in the family here. Lots of people staying at the house in our 1 extra room and the rooms of our level we aren't allowed in, all here for the big event. Should prove to be really crazy. We are all hoping for sunny weather as we will be out on the beach. It's been really warm and summery here still, despite a few days in the high 60's-low 70's when Aussies declared winter had come early!
Thanks for all the comments, I appreciate hearing from everyone and miss you all a great deal.
Friday, February 22, 2008
Links make the world go round.
The beaches are lovely -but don't just take my word for it. There are apparently cameras on all the beaches to broadcast the current wave conditions for all those internet-savvy surfers. You can look at most all of the beaches in real time video updates. Here is Avalon Beach, the one I posted my little video clip from. If you want to see more, on the left hand side select New South Wales (that's the state Sydney is in).
I also found an article concerning cultural differences between Americans and Aussies. It's a long read, but pretty interesting. It's interesting to note things that are fundamentally different between the cultures.
I also found an article concerning cultural differences between Americans and Aussies. It's a long read, but pretty interesting. It's interesting to note things that are fundamentally different between the cultures.
Thursday, February 21, 2008
More Bright Flora and Fauna
This pretty, bright flower is an Australian Bottlebrush. It doesn't smell, but all the jasmine around here perfumes the air.
This is a King Parrot. Apparently they are pretty rare aroun
d here, but we've seen 2 since we've been here. He was on the deck railing briefly, but unfortunately the dogs were on the deck too. I could only get a picture when it flew into the nearby tree. Sorry it's not the clearest image, but it's so bright and unusual I wanted to share it with you all.
Friday, February 15, 2008
Puppy Love
I'm so very happy to see our boys again. They are in good health, haven't lost any weight, and seemed to be well taken care of by the quarantine station. I'm so glad for that. They jumped all over me when they saw me. (Especially Ender, who whined and licked me a lot too.) They are world travellers now, but I guess they didn't forget me after all.
We loaded up their large airline crates (which happily looked very intact, like they hadn't bumped about at all -no dents, damamge or scrapes so the boys didn't get banged around looks like.) Spoiled Ender sat on my lap most of the way back, and he was so happy sticking his nose in air conditioning.
Roland took the drive home pretty calmly, watching things pass by the windows. We brought them to their new backyard and the first thing the did was run around it checking out the fence. They really seem to enjoy jumping on the big rocks in their new home and sniffing around in all the bush. Roland -kind of the rock!
I found them some of the cutest dogbowls at the $2 shop, but I think now I'm going to use both bowls for food and get them a larger bucket for water. They drank 3 bowls of water yesterday with all the excitement.
Naturally, they are very exicted that cats live around here. The cats are noticably less excited. Thor hid under the barbcue yesterday as the dogs came home, Babushka pretended to be a statue on the handrail (and actually avoided detection), and Kavika refused his customary shimp dinner on his screened-in porch at all last night because although he is secure and on the next level up of the house, he overlooks the dog pen and the dogs can see him. Hopefully the cats will get used to the boys soon and realize they are free to come and go as they please but the dogs are confined to their pen. Time, and a strong fence.
We took them for their first walk yesterday when V came home for his break. They loved it -lots of hills, a dogpark, and we even walked them along the bay. They were startled when they tried to drink the bay water (it's salt water). It was really funny because they refused water from a bowl after that until we proved to them it
wasn't salty but splashing their mouths with it. They will just have to learn not all water is tasty. :)
They really wanted to play with all the dogs in the dogpark, but we want them to get a bit more settled before we let them loose. (In the dogpark, it's a place they can just run and play and not wear leashes.) *Crossing my fingers no one will decide to pick a fight (Yes -that means you Roland!)*
People in the dogpark are super-friendly. Today I took them to the park again after walking V to the bus stop for work. A lovely lady with 2 beautiful black and white border collies (Bonnie and Clyde) came over and talked with me at length, wanting to know all about the boys, exclaiming how pretty they were, and giving me advice on local vets and trainers to check into. It's nice to be a dog person here -there are plenty of friendly people happy to talk about dogs.
Here were the gates before painting: bright pink. (Notice the rain pouring in the background and dripping off the roof.)
Happily the fence was actually finished when they got home -I finally got the painting done and dry. (Not that I had the hard part of actually building the fence -just the curse of rain that painting outside brings.) Here is a pic of the finished gates with two very happy puppies in front of it.
I'm so glad the boys are with us finally. I have company all day now and companions for my daily walks. Now, if only they could getthrough the night without barking. But, they have to get used to the fact that it sounds like a jungle here too; I didn't sleep the first few nights either.
Cheers from all of us!
We loaded up their large airline crates (which happily looked very intact, like they hadn't bumped about at all -no dents, damamge or scrapes so the boys didn't get banged around looks like.) Spoiled Ender sat on my lap most of the way back, and he was so happy sticking his nose in air conditioning.
Roland took the drive home pretty calmly, watching things pass by the windows. We brought them to their new backyard and the first thing the did was run around it checking out the fence. They really seem to enjoy jumping on the big rocks in their new home and sniffing around in all the bush. Roland -kind of the rock!I found them some of the cutest dogbowls at the $2 shop, but I think now I'm going to use both bowls for food and get them a larger bucket for water. They drank 3 bowls of water yesterday with all the excitement.
Naturally, they are very exicted that cats live around here. The cats are noticably less excited. Thor hid under the barbcue yesterday as the dogs came home, Babushka pretended to be a statue on the handrail (and actually avoided detection), and Kavika refused his customary shimp dinner on his screened-in porch at all last night because although he is secure and on the next level up of the house, he overlooks the dog pen and the dogs can see him. Hopefully the cats will get used to the boys soon and realize they are free to come and go as they please but the dogs are confined to their pen. Time, and a strong fence.We took them for their first walk yesterday when V came home for his break. They loved it -lots of hills, a dogpark, and we even walked them along the bay. They were startled when they tried to drink the bay water (it's salt water). It was really funny because they refused water from a bowl after that until we proved to them it
wasn't salty but splashing their mouths with it. They will just have to learn not all water is tasty. :)They really wanted to play with all the dogs in the dogpark, but we want them to get a bit more settled before we let them loose. (In the dogpark, it's a place they can just run and play and not wear leashes.) *Crossing my fingers no one will decide to pick a fight (Yes -that means you Roland!)*
People in the dogpark are super-friendly. Today I took them to the park again after walking V to the bus stop for work. A lovely lady with 2 beautiful black and white border collies (Bonnie and Clyde) came over and talked with me at length, wanting to know all about the boys, exclaiming how pretty they were, and giving me advice on local vets and trainers to check into. It's nice to be a dog person here -there are plenty of friendly people happy to talk about dogs.
Here were the gates before painting: bright pink. (Notice the rain pouring in the background and dripping off the roof.)
Happily the fence was actually finished when they got home -I finally got the painting done and dry. (Not that I had the hard part of actually building the fence -just the curse of rain that painting outside brings.) Here is a pic of the finished gates with two very happy puppies in front of it.
I'm so glad the boys are with us finally. I have company all day now and companions for my daily walks. Now, if only they could getthrough the night without barking. But, they have to get used to the fact that it sounds like a jungle here too; I didn't sleep the first few nights either.
Cheers from all of us!
Thursday, February 14, 2008
Hooray!!!!
My puppies get out of Quarantine today -hooray! I'm off to pick them up. My kind Aussie Dad is driving me the 3 hours it takes to get them and then we'll all be together.
I'm one happy girl today!
I'm one happy girl today!
Wednesday, February 13, 2008
Furry and Feathered Friends
So, you know there are gorgeous beaches around. How about some cute animal pictures, without even leaving my house?
Furry Friend #1:
This little guy is a ring-tailed opossum. He sleeps the day away in the bamboo roof above the deck and outdoor light. That's just a few feet from where I've been painting on the deck the last few days. He's really cute, but he's breaking through the bamboo, which is not the best. There's actually a smaller one just to the right of the green beam here, but he's not broken through the bamboo as much so he's harder to see. A whole family of them live here around the house. The camrea flash woke him up and he blinked sleepily at me for a minute, before closing his eyes and dropping back off to sleep.
Furry Friend #2:
Okay, so this isn't an unnusual animal -or is it? Meet Thor everyone!
He's one big cat. That is a normal-sized bench seat he's barely hanging on to. He is unique as far as cats go because he's so much like a dog. We even call him the puppy kitten. He loves to be petted, he comes when you call his name, and begs when you have food. Incredibly, he'll eat just about anything. He came up the other day and took a bite out of a rice krispie treat right out of my hand (called a rice bubble here). Cheeky guy. I've never seen a cat eat a rice krispy treat! He's keeping me company until my dogs get out of quarantine. Unfortunately, he's enough like a cat to think he owns the place, and we are his people. Apparently he also terrorizes the neighborhood dogs, so I hope all will be peaceful when our boys arrive on Friday.
And, last but hardly least,
A Feathered Friend:
Look, it posed for a picture! These gorgeous little things are always about feeding from the flowers in the bush or begging for apple bits on the deck. It's a Rainbow Lorikeet and I like them very much. They will eat right out of your hand, but are a little timid so you have to be very still and calm for them to stick around. Beautiful, aren't they? They aren't caged here, they are the locals.
Furry Friend #1:
This little guy is a ring-tailed opossum. He sleeps the day away in the bamboo roof above the deck and outdoor light. That's just a few feet from where I've been painting on the deck the last few days. He's really cute, but he's breaking through the bamboo, which is not the best. There's actually a smaller one just to the right of the green beam here, but he's not broken through the bamboo as much so he's harder to see. A whole family of them live here around the house. The camrea flash woke him up and he blinked sleepily at me for a minute, before closing his eyes and dropping back off to sleep.
Furry Friend #2:
Okay, so this isn't an unnusual animal -or is it? Meet Thor everyone!
He's one big cat. That is a normal-sized bench seat he's barely hanging on to. He is unique as far as cats go because he's so much like a dog. We even call him the puppy kitten. He loves to be petted, he comes when you call his name, and begs when you have food. Incredibly, he'll eat just about anything. He came up the other day and took a bite out of a rice krispie treat right out of my hand (called a rice bubble here). Cheeky guy. I've never seen a cat eat a rice krispy treat! He's keeping me company until my dogs get out of quarantine. Unfortunately, he's enough like a cat to think he owns the place, and we are his people. Apparently he also terrorizes the neighborhood dogs, so I hope all will be peaceful when our boys arrive on Friday.And, last but hardly least,
A Feathered Friend:
Look, it posed for a picture! These gorgeous little things are always about feeding from the flowers in the bush or begging for apple bits on the deck. It's a Rainbow Lorikeet and I like them very much. They will eat right out of your hand, but are a little timid so you have to be very still and calm for them to stick around. Beautiful, aren't they? They aren't caged here, they are the locals.
Tuesday, February 12, 2008
Laughter is the Best Medicine
I was very happy to finally find an Aussie version of Aleve, aka naproxen sodium, in the local Chemist. However, medicines in general shock me here. For one thing, they are sold in extremely small quantities. In the states it was common to buy headache/muscle ache medicines such as in bottles of 80-100 pills, and larger bottles with 150-250 pills were also available. However, in Australia it is common to purchase 20-24 pills at a time.
In the states it costs about $8 US for a bottle of 200 pills of a typical generic brand of Aleve, and I believe $12 for the brand name. In Australia it costs about $10 AUS (which is ~$9 US) for just 20 pills of the same thing. That means it's roughly 10 times as expensive here. Each time I have a headache and take 2 pills, it costs me $1.00. I'm hoping I don't have many headaches. I also found it extremely funny that naproxen sodium is marketed over here as a menstrual relief drug.
Enjoy your cheap and bountiful medicines, USA!
In the states it costs about $8 US for a bottle of 200 pills of a typical generic brand of Aleve, and I believe $12 for the brand name. In Australia it costs about $10 AUS (which is ~$9 US) for just 20 pills of the same thing. That means it's roughly 10 times as expensive here. Each time I have a headache and take 2 pills, it costs me $1.00. I'm hoping I don't have many headaches. I also found it extremely funny that naproxen sodium is marketed over here as a menstrual relief drug.
Enjoy your cheap and bountiful medicines, USA!
Being a kid again
In many ways being in another country is like being a kid again, whether you're just traveling or newly living there. Think about it. You go to the post office and need to ask things like "How do I mail a letter?" and "Where do I write the return address?". You approach a candy counter, read the names and look at the pictures, and just pick one and see if you like it. You try new pop and drinks, sometimes liking the result and other times trying not to spit it back out rudely.
Stewardess and I once had an interesting drink experience while traveling in the UK. We purchased a lemon/fruity drink called a squash. We though it was odd that people put squash in a fruit drink, but we bought it and each had a sip. It was awful! I think I vaguely remember spitting, and a lot of puckering. It turned out that "squash" meant it was a fruit juice concentrate. It was not meant to drink plain, you were supposed to add about 3 parts water. :) (Stewardess can kill me later for telling everyone this story.)
It really is like being a kid again really, only you're much taller than a kid so people look at you funny when you don't know how to do simple tasks. (Until you open your mouth that is. Then upon hearing your accent they ask you if you're having a nice visit.)
So, being a kid again here is one of my first new things I really like: Pouring Custard. So Aussies have this stuff that comes in a bottle like a little carton of milk. It's refrigerated, yet it's served hot or cold. It tastes a lot like vanilla pudding, only runnier. I have had it poured over fruit, and it sure is yummy. You'll all have to taste it when you come. What's not to like -it's custard!
One more fun discovery is a "Choc-top", which is a vanilla ice cream cone with the top dipped in chocolate shell. It is sold in movie theaters. Oh, and if you want one without the chocolate (i.e. a plain vanilla cone) you order a "choc-top without chocolate". Don't ask me why you don't just order a vanilla cone. They have quite a variety of movie snacks, but just like America it's pretty pricey.
Another difficulty with traveling is the quantity of food. I am trying to get used to using grams and liters here in Australia. Sure, we used those units in chemistry labs, but in small quantities and generally powdered solids and solvents only. I have no idea how much tea 100 grams is, or how many kilograms of carrots I want. Luckily I haven't had to order any quantities of sliced sandwich meat or amounts of steak or chicken yet. In Germany once I ordered a half-pound of cherries from a fruit stand because it was the only unit of measurement I knew how to say in German. I mean, most classes don't teach you how to say fractions like "1/4" or "3/4", you know? I split the cherries with a friend.
Cheers everyone!
Stewardess and I once had an interesting drink experience while traveling in the UK. We purchased a lemon/fruity drink called a squash. We though it was odd that people put squash in a fruit drink, but we bought it and each had a sip. It was awful! I think I vaguely remember spitting, and a lot of puckering. It turned out that "squash" meant it was a fruit juice concentrate. It was not meant to drink plain, you were supposed to add about 3 parts water. :) (Stewardess can kill me later for telling everyone this story.)
It really is like being a kid again really, only you're much taller than a kid so people look at you funny when you don't know how to do simple tasks. (Until you open your mouth that is. Then upon hearing your accent they ask you if you're having a nice visit.)
So, being a kid again here is one of my first new things I really like: Pouring Custard. So Aussies have this stuff that comes in a bottle like a little carton of milk. It's refrigerated, yet it's served hot or cold. It tastes a lot like vanilla pudding, only runnier. I have had it poured over fruit, and it sure is yummy. You'll all have to taste it when you come. What's not to like -it's custard!
One more fun discovery is a "Choc-top", which is a vanilla ice cream cone with the top dipped in chocolate shell. It is sold in movie theaters. Oh, and if you want one without the chocolate (i.e. a plain vanilla cone) you order a "choc-top without chocolate". Don't ask me why you don't just order a vanilla cone. They have quite a variety of movie snacks, but just like America it's pretty pricey.
Another difficulty with traveling is the quantity of food. I am trying to get used to using grams and liters here in Australia. Sure, we used those units in chemistry labs, but in small quantities and generally powdered solids and solvents only. I have no idea how much tea 100 grams is, or how many kilograms of carrots I want. Luckily I haven't had to order any quantities of sliced sandwich meat or amounts of steak or chicken yet. In Germany once I ordered a half-pound of cherries from a fruit stand because it was the only unit of measurement I knew how to say in German. I mean, most classes don't teach you how to say fractions like "1/4" or "3/4", you know? I split the cherries with a friend.
Cheers everyone!
Saturday, February 9, 2008
Honk! Watch out!
Ha! Lucky you all weren't in Australia today. I took to the roads for my first driving lessons. That's right -time to cower in fear... I'm driving a large vehicle with a very wide turning radius, on the wrong side of the road, and the best part -it's a stick! I killed it only 3 times though. I expected it to die a while lot more. My patient Aussie-Dad was giving me instructions and my Aussie-mum was in the back, seatbelted in. Brave souls. There are far too many pedals and in all the wrong places. At least I didn't hit anyone, yet.
It was my first driving lesson since the car has been in the shop getting converted to "gas" -LPG. The LPG is equal in price to gas in the USA roughly, whereas "petrol" here is twice as expensive as fuel in the states.
Unfortunately another person was getting driving lessons in the same parking lot at the same time. Scary eh? It was even more scary once you saw that it was a 7 year old kid sitting in his dad's lap. I so was better than the little kid. I mean, all he had to do was steer, and I had to reach all those pedals!
It was my first driving lesson since the car has been in the shop getting converted to "gas" -LPG. The LPG is equal in price to gas in the USA roughly, whereas "petrol" here is twice as expensive as fuel in the states.
Unfortunately another person was getting driving lessons in the same parking lot at the same time. Scary eh? It was even more scary once you saw that it was a 7 year old kid sitting in his dad's lap. I so was better than the little kid. I mean, all he had to do was steer, and I had to reach all those pedals!
Thursday, February 7, 2008
Airline Circus
Anyone else have their heads spinning when they try to book airline tickets? It seems like every day I check, and every day they change. If there are so many airplanes going standard routes, how come there are so many different companies trying to sell me tickets? And how is a one-way ticket so much more expensive than the cost of a round-trip?
I never knew you had to be in the USA to use Priceline. Too bad considering I have found some of the best deals through them, but you can't fly from OZ to the USA, just USA to OZ. (Planes only fly one way?)
Jetstar has some really great prices, but it only gets you to Hawaii. :( Then I end up piecing together flights from Oz to Hawaii, then Hawaii to LAX, then LAX to my hometown, and it all gets a bit much. (Especially since I'm going to have to carry all of my own bags this time!)
But, I'm happy that I get to fly home for Stewardess' wedding. :) Maybe I'll get tickets figured out soon. It's surprising that they are sooo much easier to book from the states to here than vice-versa.
PS. Love the map-thingy for visitors Sparquay, thanks!
I never knew you had to be in the USA to use Priceline. Too bad considering I have found some of the best deals through them, but you can't fly from OZ to the USA, just USA to OZ. (Planes only fly one way?)
Jetstar has some really great prices, but it only gets you to Hawaii. :( Then I end up piecing together flights from Oz to Hawaii, then Hawaii to LAX, then LAX to my hometown, and it all gets a bit much. (Especially since I'm going to have to carry all of my own bags this time!)
But, I'm happy that I get to fly home for Stewardess' wedding. :) Maybe I'll get tickets figured out soon. It's surprising that they are sooo much easier to book from the states to here than vice-versa.
PS. Love the map-thingy for visitors Sparquay, thanks!
Wednesday, February 6, 2008
Rain Rain, go away
I awoke to a beautiful sunny day today. V left for work around 11 and so I put on my old clothes and was all ready to paint the gates today for the dog fence. (They are currently bright pink.) Like magic, as soon as I had paintbrush in hand the heavens opened up and dumped water. Grrr....
So I came inside to write e-mails to some people, like my lovely Sis. And a few paragraphs in, *Pfffzzztttt* out goes the electricity. Stupid rain.
So I spent the day inside reading a Terry Prachett book with a fat black and white cat on my lap. I ate a lunch of cold leftovers and lamented the loss of electricity. No electricity, no cup of tea. :(
I am glad we had some nice weather when I first arrived so I got to go to the beaches. There's lots of flooding in Sydney atm, and actually all over Australia. But not to worry. We live on a very steep hill and in a tall house.
To answer some of the comments: (And I love hearing from you all!)
1. So you live in the bush?
We don't live out in the wilderness or anything, but people in Australia are VERY into "native species" and "natural gardens (yards)". They love their native animals and plants and need the plants to provide homes and food for the animals. We actually live in a very posh neighborhood with views overlooking a bay and even the ocean on a clear day. That is, if you can see through the trees, which are illegal to chop down even in your own yard.
2. Do leeches hurt?
I cannot speak from personal experience yet, thankfully, but leeches do not hurt. In fact most people do not notice them or maybe feel something squishy between their toes. Their unfortunate side effect is what they are known for in history - secreting an anti-clotting enzyme as they bite which causes you to just bleed and bleed. It is only a small wound, but it will not stop bleeding for some time.
So I came inside to write e-mails to some people, like my lovely Sis. And a few paragraphs in, *Pfffzzztttt* out goes the electricity. Stupid rain.
So I spent the day inside reading a Terry Prachett book with a fat black and white cat on my lap. I ate a lunch of cold leftovers and lamented the loss of electricity. No electricity, no cup of tea. :(
I am glad we had some nice weather when I first arrived so I got to go to the beaches. There's lots of flooding in Sydney atm, and actually all over Australia. But not to worry. We live on a very steep hill and in a tall house.
To answer some of the comments: (And I love hearing from you all!)
1. So you live in the bush?
We don't live out in the wilderness or anything, but people in Australia are VERY into "native species" and "natural gardens (yards)". They love their native animals and plants and need the plants to provide homes and food for the animals. We actually live in a very posh neighborhood with views overlooking a bay and even the ocean on a clear day. That is, if you can see through the trees, which are illegal to chop down even in your own yard.
2. Do leeches hurt?
I cannot speak from personal experience yet, thankfully, but leeches do not hurt. In fact most people do not notice them or maybe feel something squishy between their toes. Their unfortunate side effect is what they are known for in history - secreting an anti-clotting enzyme as they bite which causes you to just bleed and bleed. It is only a small wound, but it will not stop bleeding for some time.
Saturday, February 2, 2008
Deja Vu
Living in Australia this year feels a bit like stepping back into last year. Tv programs like Kid Nation and Survivor China are airing "all new" episodes. Movies out on DVD in the states are hitting theaters soon. And I am very unpopular when I suggest that I know the endings already. :P
Some things that are brand new to me: paralytic ticks (so know which spots belong on you and which ones don't -these things are TINY and hard to see but nice and harmful), and now since it rained the last 2 days, leeches. I thought V was just trying to scare me with the leeches, until on the way to the movies today a friend described how she found one between her toes and was bleeding everywhere. Apparently they are just in our little area (way outside of the city) and they go away when the rains go away. I hope that's soon.)
Hope I didn't lose too many visitor after reading that. The beaches still are great -the ticks and leeches are just in the bush. :)
Cheers!
Wednesday, January 30, 2008
Some Accomplishments
1. V has a job. Hooray for income!
2. Health insurance
3. Library Card
4. Walked to the dog park and back on my own without getting lost!
5. Bank Account
Looks like I'm well on my way to settling in. Or at least, off to a good start. I'm still trying to prove to Australia that yes I can have my license here; I have been driving for 12 years. They want proof of consecutive driving years, not just my current license. Did you know it takes an Australian 3 years to get a full drivers license? And it's darn expensive too.
Movies!
The first mornings I was here, I had Jet Lag and was waking up at 4:45 am. That is before the sun, but not before the birds. Turn up your sound and listen to "Sounds at 5 am in Sydney". Thankfully I now sleep later. It does sound like a jungle here though. All those pretty birds around here also make a pretty racket. And that Kookaburra? He's laughing because it's 5 am.
One of my favorite things we have done is get up in the mornings and walk along the beach. I took my camera with me on the first morning and wanted to share the experience especially with all those who I hear are getting snowed in. This is just minutes from our house. Come for a short walk with the family along the beach!
Saturday, January 26, 2008
Australia Day
Yesterday was Australia Day, which is a big national holiday here. We went over to a fun party to celebrate and ate Thai style Calamari, several salads, pesto grilled chicken, cheese and fruit, and cream filled desserts. It was nice to meet some new people. I was shocked I even met an Aussie who is a George Bush fan. Very fun night. Plus we managed to stay up late enough that I FINALLY was able to sleep past 5 am this morning. Hooray!
Friday, January 25, 2008
Pictures speak a thousand words
Of course we didn't make it here without some trouble from security. We had one way tickets and bits of computer parts packed in our bags; it was a given. Security people are some of the pettiest people while at the same time some of the most inept at their jobs. But for now, lets skip over the airport hassles with security. I finally got some photos uploaded. Here's some pretty pictures. OOh. Ah.
This a view of downtown Sydney as we flew into Sydney Airport. Can you spot the Opera House?
This a view of downtown Sydney as we flew into Sydney Airport. Can you spot the Opera House?
This is the beach closest to our house. We went for a walk here on our first full day in Australia.
Thursday, January 24, 2008
Recap
Hi! Well things got really busy before I left, so I have lots to post about and nothing posted. :)
Sunday night we had a lovely dinner at the house. V started cooking for it on Saturday with a live lobster and it just got better from there. Mom and Dad were a great help with the cooking, cleaning and decorating to make the evening really enjoyable.
Monday of course was Martin Luther King day, which meant a lot of things were closed. But I spent most of the day packing the trailer and a last weigh of the suitcases. We went out to eat Mexican for dinner and I got the Texas burrito. As soon as mom send the picture (hint, hint) I will how you exactly how big burritos in America can be. I'm going to miss Mexican restaurants, but luckily V got a Mexican cookbook for Christmas.
Tuesday we were up very early, with all of our luggage in tow and many layers of clothing on. Luckily it was very cold in Oklahoma so the layers of clothing were keeping us very warm. The true reason we were wearing so many layers was not because it was cold though. With our limited luggage, we were trying to take as much as possible, so we layered up! I wore 6 layers on top, tank tops, T-shirts, 2 long sleeve shirts, a light jacket, a thick jacket, and a cloak of red velvet. I also was wearing 2 pair of blue jeans, a belt, a hat, and hiking boots. V was also wearing multiple layers on top and bottom, most notably a large black bathrobe.
So, that gets us to the airport. I'm going to go eat lunch before continuing. But know we're here safe and sound.
Monday, January 21, 2008
Down to the wire
(From Draft)
It's my last full day in Oklahoma. We leave tomorrow morning for the first flight. Had a great, bittersweet day yesterday. Church was great as always, but I'm really going to miss it and all the great people I know and care for there. It was hard saying good-bye for a while. You take for granted when you see people regularly that all will be fine when you see them next.
All I can say is thank goodness I'm coming back in July!
All I can say is thank goodness I'm coming back in July!
Friday, January 18, 2008
And then there were 5...
Time is flying by. Friends coming to visit, lunch with friends, errands all around town 'cause I don't want a library book 3 years overdue.
Monday is Martin Luther King day. Which is great, except all government places will be closed so I have to get things like mailing anything, a new drivers license, library stuff, etc. done by today! EEk!
Stress is already building. Time for another cup of tea.
Monday is Martin Luther King day. Which is great, except all government places will be closed so I have to get things like mailing anything, a new drivers license, library stuff, etc. done by today! EEk!
Stress is already building. Time for another cup of tea.
Tuesday, January 15, 2008
Countdown -7 days to go
Ladies and Gents -We have a winner! Why am I not suprised that a musical reference would be easily picked out by you Logan. :)
Oasis -"Half the World Away" is a great song. But, back in my high school days I considered Texas half a world away from Oklahoma. Now, I guess my world has gotten a bit bigger.
Thanks for reading everyone. It's not always easy staying in touch with friends, so I hope this makes it a little easier. I know I love reading y'alls blogs -those of you who haven't turned to the dark side of facebook.
Progress is being made -I have 2 suitcases fully packed now. Gosh, I took more with me when I moved to a shared dormroom in college. Waaay more. (Even tho my Dad told me I didn't need anything but some clothes and a pencil!)
Gotta go enjoy my last week in the good ole US of A!
PS. Logan, Can you e-mail me your address please? Gotta send your prize.
PPS. Also, anyone who wants postcards from Australia please e-mail me your address please and I will do my very best!
Oasis -"Half the World Away" is a great song. But, back in my high school days I considered Texas half a world away from Oklahoma. Now, I guess my world has gotten a bit bigger.
Thanks for reading everyone. It's not always easy staying in touch with friends, so I hope this makes it a little easier. I know I love reading y'alls blogs -those of you who haven't turned to the dark side of facebook.
Progress is being made -I have 2 suitcases fully packed now. Gosh, I took more with me when I moved to a shared dormroom in college. Waaay more. (Even tho my Dad told me I didn't need anything but some clothes and a pencil!)
Gotta go enjoy my last week in the good ole US of A!
PS. Logan, Can you e-mail me your address please? Gotta send your prize.
PPS. Also, anyone who wants postcards from Australia please e-mail me your address please and I will do my very best!
Monday, January 14, 2008
The Journey Begins
It's time. My visa has finally come through. My stuff is nearly packed. And, my dogs are already on their way to Australia. The big day approaches for us rapidly -January 22.
So, as promised a blog so I can share the wierd, wonderful, and everyday happenings of life half a world away and upside down. I don't have much to share right now, but I wanted to get all set up before things get too busy to play with fonts and colors.
Right now I'm working on fitting my life into 3 suitcases and a carry-on, a total of 172 lbs. Everything is suprisingly heavy. My winter coat weighs 4 lbs, and even most of my suitcases weigh between 9-15 lbs empty!
Ps. If you know where the inspiration came from for my blog address, be the first to comment and I'll send you a prize!
So, as promised a blog so I can share the wierd, wonderful, and everyday happenings of life half a world away and upside down. I don't have much to share right now, but I wanted to get all set up before things get too busy to play with fonts and colors.
Right now I'm working on fitting my life into 3 suitcases and a carry-on, a total of 172 lbs. Everything is suprisingly heavy. My winter coat weighs 4 lbs, and even most of my suitcases weigh between 9-15 lbs empty!
Ps. If you know where the inspiration came from for my blog address, be the first to comment and I'll send you a prize!
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